This edited volume contains original chapters by some of the leading researchers and writers in HRD. It provides a definitive work on the design and conduct of research in HRD and identifies and examines the possibilities and limitations of particular methods and techniques. Emerging debates on the purpose, nature and practice and theoretical base of HRD are examined. Each chapter is structured with: * Statement of aims* Description of theoretical and empirical context^* Identification and examination of methodological issues* Description and evaluation of research design* Critical analysis and evaluation* Key learning points